Saying our farewells to several CSCODI volunteers at the Butembo market, we checked out of the Center Kikyo, had a nice lunch there, and proceeded to drive north to Beni.
This was our third trip from Butembo to Beni (twice in 2008) but thankfully the first time our car didn’t breakdown on the beautiful but rough rocky road. Instead, it was the breakdown of a UN truck filled with Nepalese soldiers that caused problems. Why it chose to breakdown right beside a transport truck that had broken down, we don’t know. It created a frustrating backup of cars and trucks unable to get by.
Trying to get the UN truck out of the way. We wound up squeezing by on the right.
Have we said how beautiful the Beni to Butembo road is?
We arrived at the CSCODI clinic in south east Beni as it was getting dark. Their focus is on being a mother / child clinic.
CSCODI Mother and Child clinic, Beni
Entering the CSCODI Mother and Child clinic, Beni
It was obvious that there is no money or they are trying to do far too much given their available resources. There was no electricity because there was no fuel for their small generator. An incubator was unused due to the unreliable power. The medical supply cabinet was bare and we were told of unpaid salaries. Yet it is remarkable what they do without resources. At least four women were recovering from Caesarians. Several rooms had mothers in a bed with a small child. We guessed at 35 to 40 patients being on premise.
CSCODI doctor showing us the barren supply cabinet
Staff at the CSCODI clinic, Beni, North Kivu, DRC
CSCODI doctors and staff
We met Kavuo Esther, who much like Kahindo Mama Nely we met in Butembo, is a woman with AIDS trying to help others. She is the leader of a group of 386 women trying to support each other. She talked of a lack of money and anti-retro viral medicines. She is trying to establish microfinancing for these women. It is remarkable to see the determination of the Congolese.
Kavuo Esther with her supporters
Bens in Congo 
Leave a comment
Comments feed for this article